As Imran Khan’s call to lockdown Islamabad comes close, it is difficult not to assess the implications it may have on the status quo. Recently, and perhaps rightly so, Imran Khan has been criticised for refusing to take part in democratic political processes. Boycotting the joint parliamentary session, not participating in the All Parties’ Conference, and staging massive protests; all of this has led to many corners of the society labelling him as anti-democratic. It is also argued that it is simply his unchecked desire for power that has led to him indulging in politics of agitation. While a majority of such claims come and go like thought-trends, an assessment on PTI’s missed opportunities can prove to be an interesting venture.

Protests and lack of participation has perhaps come at the cost of establishing a strong political record. Instead of instituting an exemplary model in his province, his aspirations led to distractions. By doing all this, he has provided the ruling government with strong arguments against himself. There are lessons to be learnt from this party-conflict for all potential oppositions.